St. George's, Grenada March 4th, 2009: Prime Minister Hon. Tillman Thomas has called on Grenada’s public officers to become more efficient and effective in the delivery of services to all customers.

The Prime Minister, in an address to the ceremony launching the Grenada Public Sector Modernization Change Management Program Monday, said the government’s commitment to public service modernization goes beyond an election pledge. He said his administration is committed to its pre-election promise of openness, transparency and inclusiveness. He added that an efficient and effective Public Service that delivers services to all customers is integral to this process.

The Grenadian leader said he views the public service as one that fully understands and demonstrates that it exists solely to serve the citizens of Grenada and is fully accountable for its actions and performance.

“My vision is for a Public Service that delivers services based on diligence, integrity, honesty, objectivity and impartiality and one that puts public interest first and demonstrates professional competence, responsiveness, openness and transparency. This vision is not beyond our reach at this time,” he declared.

Prime Minister Thomas expressed his appreciation to the government and people of Canada for making CAD $1.5Million towards the Public Sector Modernization Change Management Program.

“We want all parties to know that we share a common destiny as a nation. We have a responsibility as a Public Service to build a legacy of excellence,“ the Prime Minister told the gathering of managers of the public service and statutory bodies. He added, “we will walk the talk of modernization. We cannot wait for change to happen. We must make it happen. We must be the heart beat of change to build integrity and renew trust of citizens in our public institutions.“

He called on all pubic servants to embrace the modernization programme which he says will help to reinforce leadership development and sound management in the public service. It will, according to the Prime Minister, provide frameworks and tools to assess our service standards and strengthen accountability for results.

“Our Grenadian people are looking for results and their expectations are high. Let us therefore face change management in our ministries and departments with the true Grenadian spirit of resilience. Let us work together to build a legacy that will make future generations proud.  Let us distinguish ourselves as a nation through our level of service excellence and commitment to standards,” he said.